What characterizes peripheral vascular disease (PVD)?

Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is characterized by a range of features that impact the circulation, particularly in the peripheral arteries. It is indeed a slow progressive disorder of the circulation, signifying that over time, the blood vessels narrow or can become blocked due to atherosclerosis or other factors. This gradual process leads to reduced blood flow, which can cause symptoms such as pain, cramping, or reduced functional capacity in the affected areas.

The narrowing, blockages, or spasms in a blood vessel are also a critical aspect of PVD. This condition primarily affects the arteries that supply blood to the limbs rather than the coronary arteries of the heart or the cerebral arteries of the brain, which are more directly associated with coronary artery disease and cerebrovascular disease respectively.

Since all the aspects described in the mention encapsulate the characteristics of PVD—its progressive nature, the conditions affecting the blood vessels, and the specific areas primarily affected—choosing an option that includes all of these points accurately represents the condition’s definition and scope. Therefore, identifying that "all of the above" correctly outlines the multifaceted nature of peripheral vascular disease.